Central Warehouse to be demolished among new infrastructure projects

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Governor Kathy Hochul announced two substantial upcoming infrastructure projects that will impact the Capital Region. Funding has been awarded to allow for the demolition of the long-dormant Central Warehouse in Albany, and construction work has been initiated to replace the Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge over the Hudson River.

"The Empire Corridor is a gateway to the U.S. economy, powering innovation and industry for businesses in New York State and beyond,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re making investments in two critical pieces of infrastructure to unlock the potential for further growth and to ensure this vital corridor will be strong for decades to come."

The state will be awarding $10 million toward the safe demolition of the Central Warehouse. The towering building has remained stagnant for several years, and has been the center of legal battles after falling into disarray. Regional Amtrak service has previously been disrupted after dealing with fallen debris on nearby rail tracks.

The demolition of the building will allow for new property to be developed and make way for the economic revitalization of the surrounding area. The project was made possible through the Restore New York Communities Initiative, administered by Empire State Development.

The other major project will be the construction of the new seven-span lift-type Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge. The bridge will be modernized to handle heavier freight loads, allow for two passenger trains simultaneously, and accommodate water travel on the river more reliably. The new structure will aim to bolster service on the state's Empire Corridor, and will include the addition of a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.

"This is tremendous news for the future of passenger rail in Upstate New York. For the continuation of nautical traffic along the Hudson River, and for the long dreamt of goal of a pedestrian crossing between Albany and Rensselaer," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. "I additionally applaud Governor Hochul and the state government for stepping up to address the Central Warehouse eyesore, and I am pleased that Albany County has decided to use $3M of the American Rescue Plan funding that I secured to help with the demolition as well. These two projects will benefit the Capital Region for generations to come."

The new bridge will be constructed just south of the current bridge to prevent travel disruptions until it's built. The $634.8 million project is expected to be completed by 2028.